Low FODMAP Vodka Pasta Recipe: Creamy, Comforting & Gut-Friendly

Got a craving for creamy vodka pasta, but need it to sit well with your gut? This Low FODMAP version gives you that cozy, tomato-cream comfort without the usual triggers. 

This Italian dish is comfort in a bowl, with just the right richness and a little kick. It is perfect for making pasta night at home feel a little more special.

You are getting a steady mix here: carbs from the pasta for quick energy, protein from the sausage for fullness, and satisfying fats from the infused oil and cream. Add a veggie side and you have a balanced plate that still feels like comfort food!

Why This Works For Low FODMAP

Classic vodka sauce leans on onion and garlic. We skip both and rely on garlic-infused olive oil for the aroma you want. The fructans in garlic don’t transfer into oil, so you get flavor without the FODMAPs. Tomato paste is Low FODMAP in common recipe amounts and brings a concentrated, savory note that is characteristic of classic Italian dishes. 

A small splash of vodka helps the tomato flavor open up and mix smoothly with the cream. Most of the alcohol cooks off after a quick simmer, so you get depth without a sharp taste. If you want to skip alcohol, use Low FODMAP chicken broth plus a teaspoon of white wine vinegar for a similar brightness.

Recipe Variations

• Greens: Fold in 2 to 3 cups of baby spinach right at the end, off the heat. It will soften in 30 to 60 seconds. If using chopped kale, simmer it in the sauce for 2-3 minutes first.

• Spice it up: Kick up the heat by choosing a spicy Low FODMAP sausage and adding red pepper flakes to taste.

• Protein swap: Use turkey sausage in a 1:1 swap. For a meatless option, pat dry 8 to 10 ounces of firm tofu, cube it, and sear until golden. Season with Italian herbs and salt.

• Pasta shape: Penne, ziti, or fusilli all hold the sauce well. Cook them just shy of al dente and save some pasta water to adjust the sauce.

Tips For the Best Vodka Sauce

• Toast the tomato paste until a deeper brick red. This quick step sweetens the tomatoes and builds a richer, more savory base.

• Simmer the vodka for 60 to 90 seconds. Most alcohol cooks off, leaving a smoother, rounder tomato flavor.

• Lower the heat before adding cream. Gentle heat keeps the sauce silky and prevents curdling.

• Whisk in a splash of pasta water. The starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles and thicken up.

Serving Suggestions

• Keep it simple with mixed greens dressed in a basil vinaigrette.

• A fresh asparagus salad pairs beautifully with the sauce.

• Roasted green beans add an easy, flavorful side.

• Serve with warm homemade focaccia brushed with garlic-infused olive oil for dipping.

• Finish the pasta with a light sprinkle of Parmesan or pecorino for garnish.

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